The Kasbah Trail

Today you leave Marrakech and head west to the Atlantic coast and the former pirate’s lair of Essaouira, one of Morocco’s most attractive coastal cities (approx. 3 hours). The wild waves of the Atlantic crash remorselessly onto the rocky coastline of this old pirate’s hideout. The maze of narrow lanes with tiny cafes look out onto small squares encircled by Portuguese, Berber and French battlements. Two fortresses look out over the ocean and on an offshore island stands another, even larger castle. As befits a seaport and large swathe of sandy beach, the pace of life is more relaxed here and the whitewashed streets lend a truly Mediterranean air to the city. Hotel - 2 nights (B)

We recommend a stroll around the lively old port which is full of colour and interest. The early morning is the best time - when fishermen can be seen bringing in their catch or mending their nets. The harbour was once the lair of pirates who sailed out to plunder richly laden ships that passed along the coast. The day is free to relax so you can wander as you please. Take a leisurely stroll along the ramparts, visit the little workshops that specialise in ornate inlaid work using thuya wood (an aromatic local conifer) or enjoy a meal of freshly cooked sardines down on the quayside (make sure you agree the price first!). For those wanting to stretch their legs there is a large expansive beach with a crumbling castle at the far end said to have inspired Jimi Hendrix to write Castles made of Sand – real aficionados can continue their walk to Diabet, the village where he used to live. (B)

You have the morning at leisure and in the afternoon you transfer back to Marrakech. Hotel – 1 night (B)